We won’t pay ransom to terrorists, Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has declared that his administration will not pay ransom to terrorists, emphasizing a commitment to defeating criminal elements through strategic measures. Speaking at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Tinubu received the Olubadan of Ibadanland and members of the Olubadan-in-Council.

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Congratulations on the Oyo State’s rescue that succeeded. I think we succeeded with your support and prayers, I agree with you that we should commend the men and women of the armed forces for their excellent performance.

Tinubu commended the armed forces for a successful rescue operation in Oyo State, noting that each security incident provides valuable lessons for improving the nation's security architecture. "As we emphasise the question of security, each event teaches us new methods, opens our eyes, challenges us to examine and re-examine our architecture, our strategy, our map and operations," he stated.

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As we emphasise the question of security, each event teaches us new methods, opens our eyes, challenges us to examine and re-examine our architecture, our strategy, our map and operations.

The President revealed a new approach to tackling terrorism and kidnapping, explicitly ruling out ransom payments. He announced the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions to shorten response times and strengthen the fight against terrorism. Furthermore, Tinubu confirmed the Federal Government's plan to establish state police to address security gaps at the local level, with safeguards against abuses.

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We refuse to pay ransom; we have the geography of the forest, we know what it is, and an answer to it.

He urged traditional rulers to play a more significant role in supporting security efforts and highlighted the ongoing efforts to enhance the capacity and capability of forest guards to tackle criminals hiding in forests. The President assured that the government has the "geography of the forest" and will provide a "geographical and numerical answer to the challenges."

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You’ve seen that from eight divisions now, we are now moving to 12 divisions, to shorten the response time, to give that response time the teeth that is needed for us to defeat terrorism. It is very necessary and we are doing so.